When asked if he felt undermined by Cellino, Evans added: "First and foremost, I've always believed that if you're a club owner, chairman or president, you have the final say.

"You are duty bound to everyone at the football club, including the supporters, the put the best man in the chair for the job.

"If Mr Cellino, who had an option to extend my contract, saw fit to go and speak to other people - one, I had to ask if he was doubting me. Or two, was he doing it to see if there was something better in the market?

"Everyone has feelings and it was hard to sit there and accept but when you work for Leeds United you realise the sheer size of the football club and the supporters who are wonderful people.

"You realise you have to keep your dignity and respect.

"My career will move on but it's been a great experience managing such a great club."

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FAVOURITE: Garry Monk

Leeds are so confident that they can achieve promotion next season, they have promised either a 25 per cent of 50 per cent refund for season ticket holders if they do not make the play-offs.

But Cellino is currently the subject of a Football Association charge for an alleged breach of its agent regulations.

He has also served a Football League ban for tax evasion.

His ownership has come under heavy criticism from fans, with the 'Time To Go Massimo' group regularly staging protests.

Two weeks ago the Italian said he wanted to sell the club - not for the first time - but he now has another new manager to appoint.

Former Swansea boss Garry Monk is the bookies favourite to replace Evans.